In a recent library seminar, a participant raised a significant question about the relevance of reading long texts in an age dominated by short-form content like TikTok and Instagram reels. The instructor acknowledged the challenge not just for students but for adults as well, highlighting a disturbing trend where many young people struggle with traditional narrative structures, preferring quick summaries over in-depth analysis. This raises concerns about the depth of understanding and engagement with complex topics necessary for informed decision-making in a rapidly evolving world.

The discussion also touched on the changing nature of authorship with the emergence of artificial intelligence in writing. Some advocates propose recognizing AI as authors due to its capability to produce written content. However, the instructor argues that writing transcends mere assembly of words; it is about sharing personal experiences, insights, and assuming ethical and social responsibilities tied to the content produced. AI, while capable of generating text, lacks the lived experiences and accountability that characterize human authors.

In conclusion, the instructor emphasizes that while shorter content may seem more accessible, the need for critical thinking and comprehensive understanding in society remains vital. Relying solely on summaries or AI-generated content could risk delegating essential judgments and reflections to external sources, ultimately leading to a loss of individual perspective and depth in engagement with the world.